Clarifying the doctors’ position

MDs' treatment could provoke strong reaction, Column, May 9

We applaud Thomas Walkom for his accurate portrayal of the current physician situation.

As family physicians who have practised in several provinces and lived through futile cuts and restrictions, we recognize that doctors are among the higher paid civil servants and that the government faces financial stressors. However, we feel we need to clarify the picture. While some, like Walkom, have pointed out many of the true facts, there still remain many misconceptions about doctors compared to other government employees.

First, physicians, on average, spend a minimum 10 years in post-secondary education, some up to 15 plus years to complete their training in order to responsibly take care of people’s health and well-being. During those years their incomes, if any, are well below the national average, while some are working up to 100 hours a week. When they finally become certified, many graduate having incurred massive amounts of debt. Many doctors only start earning a living well into their 30s.

Second, unlike many other government employees, doctors have no benefits, including but not limited to, no prescription drug plan, no pension, no employment insurance, no sick days, no maternity leave and no vacation days. Providing for these things comes out of their incomes, after overhead and taxes.

Third, the minister of health has portrayed this as a “wage freeze.” Some physicians’ families stand to lose up to 15 per cent of their income, while their office expenses continue to rise.

We are expected to be there for our patients, respect them and help with all their needs. It is time for the government to respect our position so that we can work toward positive and meaningful change.